Definition

Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is a condition that affects
polio
survivors. About 20%-40% of people who recover from polio will later develop PPS. The onset may occur 10-40 years after the initial polio attack.

Causes

The exact cause is unknown. It is not due to the original polio virus itself.
Instead, the syndrome is due to nerve and muscle damage that may have been caused by the original infection.

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase your chance of developing PPS include:

Previous polio attack

Severe original polio attack

Later age at onset of infection

Symptoms

Symptoms may include:

Slowly progressive muscle weakness

Muscular atrophy

Muscle spasms

Muscle pain

Difficulty swallowing or breathing

Intolerance to heat or cold

If the symptoms during the first attack of polio were severe, the symptoms of PPS may also be severe.

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A neuromuscular exam may also be done. PPS may be hard to diagnose because symptoms come and go. The symptoms may also overlap with other diseases.

Testing often involves electromyography. This measures how well your nerves and muscles are communicating.

Images may be taken of your bodily structures. This can be done with an MRI scan.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

What is post-polio syndrome? Post-Polio Health International website. Available at: http://www.post-polio.org/edu/pps.html. Accessed September 5, 2014.

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